Question

Business Ethics is “the study of standards of business behavior which promote human welfare and the good” according to Santa Clara University Markkula Center for Applied Ethics.

According to Car and Driver, “Volkswagen installed emissions software on more than a half-million diesel cars in the U.S.—and roughly 10.5 million more worldwide—that allows them to sense the unique parameters of an emissions drive cycle set by the Environmental Protection Agency.

In the test mode, the cars are fully compliant with all federal emissions levels. But when driving normally, the computer switches to a separate mode—significantly changing the fuel pressure, injection timing, exhaust-gas recirculation, and, in models with AdBlue, the amount of urea fluid sprayed into the exhaust. While this mode likely delivers higher mileage and power, it also permits heavier nitrogen-oxide emissions (NOx)—a smog-forming pollutant linked to lung cancer—up to 40 times higher than the federal limit. That doesn’t mean every TDI is pumping 40 times as much NOx as it should. Some cars may emit just a few times over the limit, depending on driving style and load.”

Would you consider the installation of these Emission Software ethical? Please explain your conclusion keeping in mind the above definition of business ethics and your own thoughts about business ethics—make sure your cover both points of views?

Answer 1

Answer: I feel that the installation of the emission software was unethical. From the definition of business ethics it is an act that promotes human welfare and good. But installing this software harms the social welfare and good as it cheats the system and promotes the harmful emissions that can lead to public harm by causing diseases like lung cancer. I also feel that it is the moral duty of every company to act responsibly and abide by the rules and regulations. But this act by the company is a clear violation of its duty towards the authorities and the society. Hence this was an unethical act.